U.S. patent application number 09/862869 was filed with the patent office on 2002-03-28 for method for caring for a fabric article and for providing a system therefor.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Aricayos Barangan, Anastacia Rosario, Honma, Nobuhiko, Schroeder, John Gregory.
Application Number | 20020037823 09/862869 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22764875 |
Filed Date | 2002-03-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020037823 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Honma, Nobuhiko ; et
al. |
March 28, 2002 |
Method for caring for a fabric article and for providing a system
therefor
Abstract
A method for caring for a fabric article and/or for providing a
fabric care system includes the steps of providing a laundry
detergent composition, a fabric conditioning composition, or both,
and a fabric treatment composition. At least one set of
instructions recommends using the fabric treatment composition with
the laundry detergent composition and/or the fabric conditioning
composition.
Inventors: |
Honma, Nobuhiko;
(Higashinada-ku, JP) ; Schroeder, John Gregory;
(Higashinada-ku, JP) ; Aricayos Barangan, Anastacia
Rosario; (Cainta Rizal, PH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
PATENT DIVISION
IVORYDALE TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 474
5299 SPRING GROVE AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45217
US
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
|
Family ID: |
22764875 |
Appl. No.: |
09/862869 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60206076 |
May 22, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
510/276 ;
510/439 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C11D 11/0017
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
510/276 ;
510/439 |
International
Class: |
D06L 001/00; C11D
001/00; C11D 017/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for caring for a fabric article comprising the steps
of: providing a laundry detergent composition comprising a set of
laundering instructions; providing a fabric treatment composition
comprising a set of fabric treatment instructions, the fabric
treatment composition being selected from the group consisting of a
bleaching composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer
sheet composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating
composition, and a combination thereof; laundering a fabric article
with the laundry detergent composition; and treating the fabric
article with the fabric treatment composition, wherein the set of
laundering instructions comprise a laundering recommendation to use
the laundry detergent composition in combination with the fabric
treatment composition, and wherein the set of fabric treatment
instructions comprise a fabric treatment recommendation to use the
fabric treatment composition in combination with the laundry
detergent composition.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the set of laundering
instructions comprises a set of personalized instructions.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
are provided on a location selected from the group consisting of a
pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a kiosk, a sign, a
product container, an advertisement, a product display, an Internet
website, a video, and a combination thereof.
4. A method of claim 1, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
comprise a set of personalized instructions.
5. A method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of collecting
from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data, determining a
consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set of
personalized instructions.
6. A method for providing a fabric care system comprising the steps
of: providing a laundry detergent composition; providing a fabric
treatment composition selected from the group consisting of a
bleaching composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer
sheet composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating
composition, and a combination thereof; and providing a set of
fabric treatment instructions comprising a fabric treatment
recommendation to use the fabric treatment composition in
combination with the laundry detergent composition.
7. A method of claim 6, wherein the fabric treatment recommendation
comprises a post-laundering recommendation to use the fabric
treatment composition after the laundry detergent composition.
8. A method of claim 6, wherein the fabric treatment recommendation
comprises a pre-laundering recommendation to use the fabric
treatment composition before the laundry detergent composition.
9. A method of claim 6, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
are provided on a location selected from the group consisting of a
pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a kiosk, a sign, a
product container, an advertisement, a product display, an Internet
website, a video, and a combination thereof.
10. A method of claim 6, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
comprise a set of personalized instructions.
11. A method of claim 6, further comprising the steps of collecting
from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data, determining a
consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set of
personalized instructions.
12. A method of claim 6, wherein the fabric treatment composition
is a first fabric treatment composition, and further comprising a
second fabric treatment composition which is different from the
first fabric treatment composition.
13. A method for caring for a fabric article comprising the steps
of: providing a fabric conditioning composition comprising a set of
conditioning instructions; providing a fabric treatment composition
comprising a set of fabric treatment instructions, the fabric
treatment composition being selected from the group consisting of a
bleaching composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer
sheet composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating
composition, and a combination thereof; conditioning a fabric
article with the fabric conditioning composition, and treating the
fabric article with the fabric treatment composition, wherein the
set of conditioning instructions comprise a recommendation to use
the fabric conditioning composition in combination with the fabric
treatment composition, and wherein the set of fabric treatment
instructions comprise a fabric treatment recommendation to use the
fabric treatment composition in combination with the fabric
conditioning composition.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the set of conditioning
instructions comprises a set of personalized instructions.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions are provided on a location selected from the group
consisting of a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a
kiosk, a sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product
display, an Internet website, a video, and a combination
thereof.
16. The method of claim 13, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions comprise a set of personalized instructions.
17. A method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of
collecting from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data,
determining a consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set
of personalized instructions.
18. A method for providing a fabric care system comprising the
steps of: providing a fabric conditioning composition; providing a
fabric treatment composition selected from the group consisting of
a bleaching composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer
sheet composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating
composition, and a combination thereof; and providing a set of
fabric treatment instructions comprising a fabric treatment
recommendation to use the fabric treatment composition in
combination with the fabric conditioning composition.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a pre-conditioning recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition before the fabric conditioning
composition.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a post-conditioning recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition after the fabric conditioning
composition.
21. The method of claim 18, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions are provided on a location selected from the group
consisting of a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a
kiosk, a sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product
display, an Internet website, a video, and a combination
thereof.
22. A method of claim 18, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
comprise a set of personalized instructions.
23. A method of claim 18, further comprising the steps of
collecting from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data,
determining a consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set
of personalized instructions.
24. The method of claim 18, wherein the fabric treatment
composition is a first fabric treatment composition, and further
comprising a second fabric treatment composition which is different
from the first fabric treatment composition.
25. A method for providing a fabric care system comprising the
steps of: providing a laundry detergent composition; providing a
fabric conditioning composition; providing a fabric treatment
composition selected from the group consisting of a bleaching
composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer sheet
composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating composition,
and a combination thereof; and providing a set of fabric treatment
instructions comprising a fabric treatment recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition in combination with a composition
selected from the group consisting of the laundry detergent
composition, the fabric conditioning composition, and a combination
thereof.
26. The method of claim 25, further comprising the steps of:
laundering a fabric article with the laundry detergent composition;
conditioning the fabric article with the fabric conditioning
composition; and treating the fabric article with the fabric
treatment composition, wherein the laundering step occurs before
the conditioning step.
27. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a post-laundering recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition after the laundry detergent
composition.
28. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a pre-laundering recommendation to use the
fabric treatment composition before the laundry detergent
composition.
29. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a pre-conditioning recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition before the fabric conditioning
composition.
30. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
recommendation comprises a post-conditioning recommendation to use
the fabric treatment composition after the fabric conditioning
composition.
31. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions are provided on a location selected from the group
consisting of a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a
kiosk, a sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product
display, an Internet website, a video, and a combination
thereof.
32. The method of claim 25, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions comprise a set of personalized instructions.
33. A method of claim 25, further comprising the steps of
collecting from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data,
determining a consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set
of personalized instructions.
34. A method for providing a fabric care system comprising the
steps of: providing a first fabric treatment composition selected
from the group consisting of a bleaching composition, a color
maintenance composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing
composition, a pre-treating composition, and a combination thereof;
providing a second fabric treatment composition selected from the
group consisting of a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition, a
pre-treating composition, and a combination thereof; and providing
a set of fabric treatment instructions, wherein the first fabric
treatment composition is different from the second fabric treatment
composition, and wherein the fabric treatment instructions comprise
a fabric treatment recommendation to use the first fabric treatment
composition in combination with the second fabric treatment
composition.
35. The method of claim 34, further comprising the steps of:
applying the first fabric treatment composition to a fabric
article; and applying the second fabric treatment composition to
the fabric article.
36. The method of claim 34, further comprising a set of second
fabric treatment instructions.
37. The method of claim 34, wherein the fabric treatment
instructions are provided on a location selected from the group
consisting of a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a
kiosk, a sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product
display, an Internet website, a video, and a combination
thereof.
38. A method of claim 34, wherein the fabric treatment instructions
comprise a set of personalized instructions.
39. A method of claim 34, further comprising the steps of
collecting from a consumer one or more pieces of personal data,
determining a consumer profile, and providing to the consumer a set
of personalized instructions.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The patent application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application Serial No. 60/206,076 ated May 22, 2000 by
N. Honma, et al.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a method for caring for a
fabric article.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is known to clean a fabric article, such as clothing, by
laundering it with a laundry detergent composition, and softening
it by, for example, applying a fabric conditioning composition
thereto. Furthermore, it is also known to employ other fabric
treatment compositions to a fabric article for specific purposes,
such as a pre-treater to remove stains, a starch to stiffen the
fabric upon ironing, etc.
[0004] Accordingly, there exist many, many laundry detergent
compositions, fabric conditioning compositions, and fabric
treatment compositions for the consumer to choose from. Each of
these fabric care products is typically provided separately, with
little or no indication as to what products are preferred for use
together. This, in turn, provides the consumer with an immense
number of fabric treatment combinations to choose from, even if
they just use three fabric care products, such as a laundry
detergent, a fabric conditioning composition, and a single fabric
treatment composition. In fact, for these three products, the
typical number of potential combinations in even a single small
store can easily approach a hundred, or more. With each additional
fabric treatment composition which a consumer uses, the number of
possible choices expands, dramatically, if not exponentially. Thus,
a consumer may be intimidated by the sheer number of choices
available. Furthermore, in order to find the best fabric care
results, the consumer may have to try many combinations of
products. Given this immense task and the expense of purchasing
many products, a consumer will typically settle for inferior
results.
[0005] In addition, it is possible that many fabric care products
are not specifically designed for use together. Thus, the
information in their instructions may conflict and/or confuse the
consumer. In fact, actual damage to the fabric article may occur if
incompatible fabric care products inadvertently interact and/or
cross-react. For example, an anionic surfactant and a cationic
fabric conditioning agent may form insoluble precipitates when they
are inadvertently combined.
[0006] The hair care industry has addressed this complexity by
developing hair care systems and methods for treating hair which
provide a plurality of products which may synergistically work
together to provide a better hair care result. For example, a hair
care system may include a hair shampoo, a hair conditioner, and an
adjunct hair care component such as a hair straightener, a hair
dye, a hair bleach, etc. However, such a systematic approach has
not been applied in the fabric care industry.
[0007] Accordingly, the need exists for an improved method for
caring for a fabric article. The need also exists for a method for
providing the consumer with an easy, clear system for achieving
improved fabric care results. Finally, the need exists for a method
for reducing consumer confusion about the multitude of fabric care
combinations available, while minimizing the possibility of
undesirable product interactions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention relates to a method for caring for a
fabric article including the steps of providing a laundry detergent
composition, a fabric conditioning composition, or combination
thereof, providing a fabric treatment composition, laundering
and/or conditioning the fabric article with the laundry
detergent/fabric conditioning composition, as appropriate, and
treating the fabric article with the fabric treatment composition.
The fabric treatment composition is selected from a bleaching
composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer sheet
composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating composition,
and a combination thereof. A method is also described herein, which
includes the steps of providing at least two different fabric
treatment compositions, and applying them to the same fabric
article. At least one set of instructions, typically including a
set of laundering and/or conditioning instructions and a set of
fabric treatment instructions, is also provided. The set of fabric
treatment instructions include a recommendation to use the fabric
treatment composition in combination with the laundry detergent
composition, the fabric conditioning composition, and/or the other
fabric treatment composition.
[0009] The present invention also includes a method for providing a
fabric care system having the steps of providing a laundry
detergent composition and/or a fabric conditioning composition,
providing a fabric treatment composition, and providing a set of
fabric treatment instructions. The set of instructions include a
recommendation to use the fabric treatment composition in
combination with the laundry detergent composition and/or the
fabric conditioning composition.
[0010] The present invention further includes a method for
providing a fabric care system having a first fabric treatment
composition, a second fabric treatment composition different from
the first fabric treatment composition, and a set of fabric
treatment instructions. The fabric treatment instructions includes
a fabric treatment recommendation to use the first fabric treatment
composition in combination with the second fabric treatment
composition.
[0011] It has now been found that an improved method for caring for
a fabric article may be easy to use, and clearly understood by the
consumer. Furthermore, such a method may provide one or more
improved fabric care results, such as improved cleaning, whitening,
softness, comfort to skin, absorbency, malodor elimination, perfume
fragrance retention and release, color retention, shape retention,
fabric integrity maintenance, stain removal, ease of ironing,
wrinkle reduction, static reduction, etc. Such benefits may be
especially significant and noticeable after multi-cycle application
to the same fabric article. In addition, the method of providing a
fabric care system of the present invention may significantly
reduce consumer confusion regarding synergistic fabric care
combinations. Furthermore, such a method and/or system may reduce
undesirable cross-reactions and interactions between incompatible
ingredients. In addition, the compositions are typically compatible
with all types of natural and artificial fabric articles, such as
those formed from cotton, nylon, rayon, wool, and silk, and may be
advantageously personalized and/or customized to provide
synergistic care for specific fabric articles, or specific consumer
needs.
[0012] These and other features, aspects, advantages, and
variations of the present invention, and the embodiments described
herein, will become evident to those skilled in the art from a
reading of the present disclosure with the appended claims, and are
covered within the scope of these claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF
THE INVENTION
[0013] All percentages, ratios and proportions herein are by
weight, unless otherwise specified. All temperatures are in degrees
Celsius (.degree.C.) unless otherwise specified. All documents
cited are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
Citation of any reference is not an admission regarding any
determination as to its availability as prior art to the claimed
invention.
[0014] As used herein, the term "alkyl" means a hydrocarbyl moiety
which is straight or branched, saturated or unsaturated. Unless
otherwise specified, alkyl moieties are preferably saturated or
unsaturated with double bonds, preferably with one or two double
bonds. Included in the term "alkyl" is the alkyl portion of acyl
groups.
[0015] As used herein, the term "fabric article" means any fabric,
fabric-containing, or fabric-like item which is laundered,
conditioned, or treated on a regular, or irregular basis.
Non-limiting examples of a fabric article include clothing,
curtains, bed linens, wall hangings, textiles, cloth, etc.
Preferably, the fabric article is a woven article, and more
preferably, the fabric article is a woven article such as clothing.
Furthermore, the fabric article may be made of natural and
artificial materials, such as cotton, nylon, rayon, wool, and
silk.
[0016] As used herein, the term "in combination with" means that
the referred-to composition is applied to the same fabric article
as another composition. The referred-to composition may be applied
directly to the fabric article, e.g., in neat form, and/or
indirectly, e.g., in diluted form, through the rinse cycle, etc.,
as appropriate. According to the usage of this term herein, the
referred-to composition may be used before another composition, at
the same time as another composition, and/or after another
composition, as appropriate.
Laundry Detergent Composition
[0017] In the method of the present invention, a laundry detergent
composition is provided. The laundry detergent composition useful
herein is used in laundering a fabric article to remove undesirable
materials such as dirt, oils, chemicals, body soils, etc. The
fabric article is laundered with the laundry detergent composition,
preferably during the laundering cycle of a washing process.
Accordingly, the laundry detergent composition contains at least
one detersive surfactant selected from the group consisting of an
amphoteric surfactant, an anionic surfactant, a cationic
surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, and
combinations thereof.
[0018] Nonlimiting examples of detersive surfactants useful in the
detergent composition include, the conventional C.sub.11-C.sub.18
alkyl benzene sulfonates and primary, branched-chain and random
C.sub.10-C.sub.20 alkyl sulfates, the C.sub.10-C.sub.18 secondary
(2,3) alkyl sulfates of the formula
CH.sub.3(CH.sub.2).sub.X(CHOSO.sub.3.sup.-M- .sup.+) CH.sub.3 and
CH.sub.3 (CH.sub.2).sub.y(CHOSO.sub.3.sup.-M.sup.+)
CH.sub.2CH.sub.3 where x and (y+1) are integers of at least about
7, preferably at least about 9, and M is a water-solubilizing
cation, especially sodium, unsaturated sulfates such as oleyl
sulfate, the C.sub.10-C.sub.18 alkyl alkoxy sulfates; especially EO
1-7 ethoxy sulfates), C.sub.10-C.sub.18 alkyl alkoxy carboxylates
(especially the EO 1-5 ethoxycarboxylates), the C.sub.10-.sub.18
glycerol ethers, the C.sub.10-C.sub.18 alkyl polyglycosides and
their corresponding sulfated polyglycosides, and C.sub.12-C.sub.18
alpha-sulfonated fatty acid esters. If desired, the conventional
nonionic and amphoteric surfactants such as the C.sub.12-C.sub.18
alkyl ethoxylates including the so-called narrow peaked alkyl
ethoxylates and C.sub.6-C.sub.12 alkyl phenol alkoxylates
(especially ethoxylates and mixed ethoxy/propoxy),
C.sub.12-C.sub.18 betaines and sulfobetaines, C.sub.10-C.sub.18
amine oxides, and the like, can also be included in the overall
compositions. The C.sub.10-C.sub.18 N-alkyl polyhydroxy fatty acid
amides can also be used. Typical examples include the
C.sub.12-C.sub.18 N-methylglucamides. See WO 92/06154 to Cook, et
al., published Apr. 16, 1992. Other sugar-derived surfactants
include the N-alkoxy polyhydroxy fatty acid amides, such as
C.sub.10-C.sub.18 N-(3-methoxypropyl) glucamide. The N-propyl
through N-hexyl C.sub.12-C.sub.18 glucamides can be used for low
sudsing. C.sub.10-C.sub.20 conventional soaps may also be used. If
high sudsing is desired, the branched-chain C.sub.10-C.sub.16 soaps
may be used. Mixtures of anionic and nonionic surfactants are
especially useful. Preferably, the laundry detergent composition
comprises, by weight, at least about 0.01%; more preferably at
least about 0.1%; even more preferably at least about 1%; and even
more preferably still, from about 1% to about 55% detersive
surfactant.
[0019] In addition to a detersive surfactant, a laundry detergent
composition may further contain one or more adjunct ingredients
known in the art, such as an anti-redeposition agent, a bleach, a
bleach activator, a brightener, a builder, a carrier, a chelant, a
clay soil removal agent, a dispersant, a dye, a dye-transfer
inhibitor, an enzyme, an enzyme stabilization system, a fabric
softening active, a filler, a hydrotrope, a perfume, a processing
aid, a soil release polymer, a solvent, a suds booster, a suds
supressor, etc.
[0020] While the laundry detergent composition may contain one or
more adjunct ingredients, for example, a fabric softening active,
it is distinguished from a fabric conditioning composition in that
a laundry detergent composition is applied to the fabric in the
wash cycle, and thus, its primary function is to clean and remove
undesirable materials from the fabric article.
[0021] The laundry detergent composition is not limited in physical
form, and may be a granule, a powder, a liquid, a gel, a paste, a
tablet, or a bar. Preferably, the laundry detergent composition's
form is a granule, a powder, a liquid, or a gel, and more
preferably, the laundry detergent composition is a laundry
detergent shampoo composition in a liquid, or a gel form. Without
intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that a liquid or
a gel form may be more gentle on the fabric article, may be more
soluble at low temperatures, and/or may be more effective on
enzyme-susceptible soils.
[0022] Specific, non-limiting examples of a laundry detergent
composition and/or a laundry shampoo composition useful herein
include those described in, for example, WO 95/33044 to Vinson, et
al., published on Dec. 7, 1995; WO 99/09126 to Bettiol, et al.,
published on Feb. 25, 1999; PCT Patent Application No. U.S.
00/00839 to Showell, et al., filed on Jan. 13, 2000; U.S. Pat. No.
5,916,862 to Morelli, et al., issued on Jun. 29, 1999; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,565,145 to Watson, et al., issued on Oct. 15, 1996; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,470,507 to Fredj, et al., issued on Nov. 28, 1995; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,466,802 to Panadiker, et al., issued on Nov. 14, 1995; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,460,752 to Fredj, et al., issued on Oct. 24, 1995; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,458,810 to Fredj, et al., issued on Oct. 17, 1995; and
U.S. Pat. No. 5,458,809 to Fredj, et al., issued on Oct. 17,
1995.
[0023] The laundry detergent composition is provided in a laundry
detergent composition container. The laundry detergent container
will typically be a box, a bottle, and/or a pouch, which may
further contain a dosing device or an applicator device such as a
scoop, a measuring cup, a pour spout, etc. Solid and granular
laundry detergent compositions are typically provided in a box or a
bottle, preferably a cardboard box or a plastic box, and more
preferably a laminated cardboard box, or a plastic box. Without
intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that a laminated
cardboard box and/or a plastic box may be especially advantageous,
as these boxes may be easily recyclable, and may also be adjusted
to provide desirable properties, such as a watertight seal,
moisture resistance, reclosability, etc. Liquid and gel-type
laundry detergent compositions are preferably provided within a
plastic bottle, more preferably a recyclable plastic bottle such as
a polyethylene and/or polypropylene bottle.
[0024] The laundry detergent composition typically includes a set
of laundering instructions which contain a recommendation to use
the laundry detergent composition in combination with at least one
fabric treatment composition, preferably in combination with at
least one fabric treatment composition and a fabric conditioning
composition. More preferably, the set of laundering instructions
contain a recommendation to use the laundry detergent composition
before the fabric conditioning composition, and in combination with
the fabric treatment composition.
[0025] The set of laundering instructions may be provided in
virtually any location and in any form (e.g., visual, audio,
tactile such as braile, etc.), as long as it is perceivable to a
consumer purchasing the laundry detergent composition. Thus, the
set of laundering instructions may be provided on a location such
as a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a kiosk, a
sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product display, an
Internet website, a video, and a combination thereof, preferably
the set of laundering instructions are provided on a product
container, a product display, or a combination thereof, as these
locations are easy to reference. More preferably, the set of
laundering instructions are provided on the laundry detergent
composition container, as the set of laundering instructions is
thus unlikely to become lost and/or separated from the laundry
detergent composition when it is needed.
[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the set of laundering
instructions also contain a reference to the fabric conditioning
composition, the fabric treatment composition, or both. More
preferably, the reference is the actual name of the fabric
conditioning composition, and/or the fabric treatment composition.
Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that such
a reference may significantly reduce consumer confusion,
undesirable cross-reactions and/or interactions between
incompatible ingredients.
[0027] In addition to any of the above recommendations, the set of
laundering instructions will typically also include general usage
instructions which recommend how to apply the laundry detergent
composition to a fabric article, e.g., indirectly by adding the
laundry detergent composition to an automatic washing machine prior
to the beginning of the wash cycle.
Fabric Conditioning Composition
[0028] In the method of the present invention, a fabric
conditioning composition is provided. The fabric conditioning
composition useful herein is applied to the surface and/or the
interior of a fabric article to modify the properties of the fabric
article and to provide one or more benefits such as softness, skin
comfort, reduced static, increased fluffiness, improved fiber and
color maintenance, reduced wrinkling, reduced tangling, reduced
surface friction, etc. The fabric article is thereby conditioned
with the fabric conditioning composition.
[0029] Useful fabric conditioning compositions may be in liquid,
solid, gel, or sheet form, and are typically applied to a fabric
article in the wash cycle, in the rinse cycle, and/or during the
drying cycle. Preferably, the fabric conditioning composition is
applied to the fabric article in the rinse cycle, and/or in the
drying cycle. In a highly preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the fabric conditioning composition is a liquid fabric
conditioning composition which is applied to the fabric article
during the rinse cycle of a washing process.
[0030] The fabric conditioning composition typically contains from
about 0.1% to about 90%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 70%,
and more preferably from about 1% to about 40% of a fabric
softening active such as an impalpable smectite clay, a silicone
derivative, a cationic fabric softening active, and/or a mixture
thereof. Preferred fabric softening actives include quaternary
ammonium compounds or amine precursors thereof, cationic ammonium
softening compounds, nonionic softening compounds, and mixtures
thereof. More preferred fabric softening actives and fabric
conditioning compositions include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,062,647 to Storm and Nirschl, issued Dec. 13, 1977; U.S. Pat. No.
4,375,416 to Crisp, et al., issued Mar. 1, 1983; U.S. Pat. No.
4,291,071 to Harris, et al., issued Sep. 22, 1981; and PCT Patent
Application U.S. 99/15056 to Bryant, et al., filed on Jul. 1,
1999.
[0031] In a highly preferred embodiment, the fabric conditioning
composition here is a clear, transparent, or translucent fabric
conditioning composition. Specific examples of highly preferred
fabric conditioning compositions include those disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 5,747,443 to Wahl, et al., issued May 5, 1998, and in U.S.
patent application Ser. Nos. 08/621,019; 08/620,627; 08/620,767;
08/620,513; 08/621,285; 08/621,299; 08/621,298; 08/620,626;
08/620,625; 08/620,772; 08/621,281; 08/620,514; and 08/620,958, all
filed Mar. 22, 1996, and all having the title "CONCENTRATED,
STABLE, PREFERABLY CLEAR, FABRIC SOFTENING COMPOSITION".
[0032] The fabric conditioning composition may further comprise one
or more adjunct ingredients such as a solvent, a perfume, an
antibacterial agent, a deposition aid, a pH buffer, a dye, an
optical brightener, a viscosity/dispersability modifier, a dye
transfer inhibition agent, fabric surface modifiers such as
silicones and polymers, a soil release agent, a phase stabilizer, a
stabilizer, and a mixture thereof. Preferred adjunct ingredients
include a surfactant, a pH buffer, a viscosity modifier, a perfume,
a dye, and a mixture thereof.
[0033] The fabric conditioning composition is provided in a fabric
conditioning composition container, such as a box, a bottle, and/or
a pouch, which may further contain a dosing device or an applicator
device such as a scoop, a measuring cup, a pour spout, etc. Liquid
and gel-type fabric conditioning compositions are preferably
provided within a plastic bottle, more preferably a recyclable
plastic bottle such as a polyethylene and/or polypropylene bottle.
The fabric conditioning composition may also be provided in a
pouch, especially a refill pouch.
[0034] The fabric conditioning composition typically has a set of
conditioning instructions which contain a recommendation to use the
fabric conditioning composition in combination with at least one
fabric treatment composition, preferably in combination with at
least one fabric treatment composition and a laundry detergent
composition. More preferably, the set of conditioning instructions
contain a recommendation to use the fabric conditioning composition
after the laundry detergent composition, and in combination with
the fabric treatment composition.
[0035] The set of conditioning instructions may be provided in
virtually any location and in any form (e.g., visual, audio,
tactile such as braile, etc.), as long as it is perceivable to a
consumer purchasing the fabric conditioning composition. Thus, the
set of conditioning instructions may be provided on a location such
as a pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a kiosk, a
sign, a product container, an advertisement, a product display, an
Internet website, and a combination thereof, preferably, the set of
conditioning instructions are provided on a product container, a
product display, or a combination thereof, as these locations are
easy to reference. More preferably, the set of conditioning
instructions are provided on the fabric conditioning composition's
container, as the set of conditioning instructions is therefore
unlikely to become lost and/or separated from the fabric
conditioning composition when it is needed.
[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the set of conditioning
instructions also contain a reference to the laundry detergent
composition, the fabric treatment composition, or both. More
preferably, the reference is the actual name of the laundry
detergent composition, and/or the fabric treatment composition.
Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that such
a reference may significantly reduce consumer confusion,
undesirable cross-reactions and/or interactions between
incompatible ingredients.
[0037] In addition to any of the above recommendations, the set of
conditioning instructions will typically also include general usage
instructions which recommend how to apply the fabric conditioning
composition to a fabric article, e.g., in diluted form, via
addition to the rinse cycle.
Fabric Treatment Composition
[0038] In the method of the present invention, a fabric treatment
composition is provided. The fabric treatment composition useful
herein is selected from the group consisting of a bleaching
composition, a color maintenance composition, a dryer sheet
composition, a finishing composition, a pre-treating composition,
and a combination thereof, preferably a bleaching composition, a
color maintenance composition, a finishing composition, a
pre-treating composition, and a combination thereof. If a fabric
conditioning composition is provided, then a dryer sheet may not be
needed, and thus, the fabric treatment composition is preferably
selected from the group consisting of a bleaching composition, a
color maintenance composition, a finishing composition, a
pre-treating composition, and a combination thereof. The fabric
article is treated with the fabric treatment composition.
[0039] The fabric treatment composition may be provided in
virtually any physical form, preferably as a liquid, a solid, a
foam, a gel, or a mixture thereof. The fabric treatment composition
may also be applied directly and/or indirectly to the fabric
article in either a concentrated, neat, or dilute form, as desired.
Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that that
the fabric treatment composition may provide especially improved
results after multi-cycle use with the laundry detergent
composition and/or the fabric conditioning composition. Preferably,
two or more different fabric treatment compositions are provided
and/or applied to the fabric article.
[0040] The bleaching composition useful herein provides a whitening
and/or a brightening effect on the fabric article, and may contain
any bleach per se known in the art, either alone, or in conjunction
with any bleach activators and/or bleach boosters known in the art.
A preferred bleach useful herein is a halide bleach, an oxygen
bleach, and a mixture thereof, more preferably an oxygen bleach.
Oxygen bleaches are highly preferred as they are typically safer on
fabrics, especially colored fabrics, than halide-based
bleaches.
[0041] Specific, non-limiting examples of the bleaching composition
useful herein include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,559,090 to
Scialla and Cardola, issued on Sep. 24, 1996; U.S. Pat. No.
5,536,438 to Scialla, et al., issued on Jul. 16, 1996; WO 95/21122
to Rapisarda, et al., published on Aug. 10, 1995; U.S. Pat. No.
6,037,317 to Rapisarda, et al., issued on Mar. 14, 2000; WO
95/34621 to Scialla, et al., published on Dec. 21, 1995; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,929,012 to Del Duca, et al., issued on Jul. 29, 1999; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,910,473 to Aldano, et al., issued on Jun. 8, 1999; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,001,794 to Del Duca, et al., issued on Dec. 14, 1999; WO
97/02332 to Masotti, et al., published on Jan. 23, 1997; WO
97/22407 to Bianchetti, et al., published on Jun. 26, 1997; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,968,885 to Del Duca, et al., issued on Oct. 19, 1999;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,641,739 to Kott and Willey, issue don Jun. 24,
1997; WO 97/47558 to Del Duca, et al., published on Dec. 18, 1997;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,797 to Del Duca, et al., issued on Feb. 1,
2000; WO 98/11191 to Scialla, et al., published on Mar. 19, 1998;
WO 98/11189 to Burns, et al., published no Mar. 19, 1998; WO
97/32962 to Del Duca, et al., published on Sep. 12, 1997; WO
98/11192 to Masotti, et al., published on Mar. 19, 1998; WO
98/18893 to Del Duca, et al., published on May 7, 1998; WO 98/22560
to Bertacchi, et al., published on May 28, 1998; WO 98/33879 to Del
Duca, et al., published on Aug. 6, 1998; WO 99/18181 to Del Duca,
et al., published on Apr. 15, 1999; WO 99/18179 to Del Duca, et
al., published on Apr. 15, 1999; WO 99/18183 to Del Duca, et al.,
published on Apr. 15, 1999; WO 99/24540 to Del Duca, et al.,
published on May 20, 1999; WO 99/63033 to Del Duca, et al.,
published on Dec. 19, 1999; WO 00/12666 to Campestrini, et al.,
published on Mar. 9, 2000; and WO 00/15743 to Briatore, et al.,
published on Mar. 23, 2000.
[0042] Dyes which are released from a fabric article in the wash
(i.e., "fugitive" dyes) may later redeposit on the same fabric
article, or another fabric article, and lead to undesirable
spotting, or discoloration. Furthermore, abrasion of the fabric
article surface in the wash may lead to a dulling of the fabric
article's colors. The color maintenance composition useful herein
may "lock" the colored dye(s) onto the fabric article so as to
protect fabric from fugitive dye redeposition in the wash cycle.
The color maintenance composition may also reduce fabric abrasion
in the wash. These color maintenance techniques keep the fabric
article's colors brighter and/or more vivid for a longer period of
time. Such a color maintenance composition may thus reduce and/or
prevent the fabric article from looking "old and worn".
[0043] The color maintenance composition may be applied to the
fabric article as a treatment at any time, such as when the fabric
article is new, before the fabric article's first laundering cycle,
before any specific laundering cycle, in the rinse cycle during
regular laundering, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the color
maintenance composition is applied to a new fabric article before
its first laundering cycle, so as to lock in as much dye as
possible. More preferably, the color maintenance composition is
applied to the fabric article before the fabric article's first
laundering cycle and in one or more subsequent laundering cycles,
so as to repeatedly lock dyes into the fabric article, to
continuously protect fabric from build up of fugitive dye
redeposition, and/or to protect fibers from effects of repeated
abrasion. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed
that such a method of caring for a fabric article may substantially
prolong the duration that a fabric article's colors remain bright
and/or vivid. The color maintenance composition will preferably be
applied to the fabric article by soaking it in a neat, or a diluted
solution of the color maintenance composition.
[0044] Specific, non-limiting examples of the color maintenance
composition useful herein include those described in WO 00/15745 to
Littig, et al., published on Mar. 23, 2000; and WO 00/15746 to
Littig, et al., published on Mar. 23, 2000.
[0045] The dryer sheet composition useful herein is typically
provided to reduce the static charge of the fabric article by
modifying the surface properties of the fabric article so as to
reduce its charge. Many fabric softening actives described above
with respect to fabric conditioning compositions may also be useful
in a dryer sheet composition, as they may help reduce static
charges, in addition to providing softness benefits. The dryer
sheet composition may be applied to the fabric article at any point
in the drying process. A preferred dryer sheet composition useful
herein includes those described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/227,728 to Smith, et al., filed on Jan. 8, 1999; U.S. Pat. No.
5,942,286 to Godfroid, et al., issued on Aug. 24, 1999; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,929,026 to Childs, et al., issued on Jul. 27, 1999; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,883,069 to Childs, et al., issued on Mar. 16, 1999; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,804,547 to Godfroid, et al., issued on Sep. 8, 1998; and U.S.
Pat. No. 5,578,234 to Corona, et al., issued on Nov. 26, 1996.
[0046] The finishing composition useful herein is characterized in
that it is typically applied to the fabric article as one of the
last steps prior to use (e.g., wearing) and/or in-between uses. The
finishing composition provides the fabric article with one or more
desirable properties such as crispness, wrinkle reduction, shape
maintenance, color enhancement, whiteness enhancement, improved
in-wear comfort, malodor reduction/prevention, stain protection, a
desirable scent, fiber integrity maintenance, etc. The finishing
composition is typically an ironing composition, a fabric styling
composition, a wrinkle reduction composition, a stain prevention
composition, or a combination thereof.
[0047] Preferred finishing compositions useful herein may include
active compounds such as starch, a silicone compound, a cationic
surfactant, a polymer, and a mixture thereof, at from about 0.1% to
about 33%, preferably from about 0.5% to about 20%, and more
preferably from about 1% to about 10%, by weight of the finishing
composition.
[0048] In particular, a silicone compound is highly preferred in a
finishing composition, as it is known to provide smooth ironing
benefits, lubricity, and shape retention benefits. The silicone
compound useful herein includes silicone gels, silicone
surfactants, silicone fluids, silicone gum, and cross-linked
silicone resins, as well as both linear silicones and branched
silicones. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is
believed that these silicones form cross-linked silicon-oxygen,
silicon-amine, silicon-epoxy, and/or silicon-carboxy linkages to
provide highly desirable wrinkle-reduction and ironing benefits.
Useful silicones include the curable amine-functional silicones of
EP 0 378 871 A2 to Coffindaffer, published on Jul. 25, 1990; and
U.S. Pat. No. 4,419,391 to Tanaka, et al., issued Dec. 6, 1983.
Such silicones are available from Dow Corning (USA), as Silicone
531 and Silicone 536; General Electric (USA), as SF 1706. Specific
examples of a preferred silicone gum includes polydimethylsiloxane
(PDMS), poly(dimethylsiloxane methylvinylsiloxane) copolymer,
poly(dimethylsiloxane diphenylsiloxane methylvinylsiloxane)
copolymer and mixtures thereof.
[0049] A highly preferred silicone surfactant useful in the
finishing composition is a silicone copolymer which is thought to
provide significant wrinkle reduction, ease of ironing, fabric
smoothness, and fabric softness benefits by reducing the
coefficient of friction between the fabric article's fibers, as
well as between the fabric article and an iron, or between the
fabric article and the skin. Such silicone copolymers are available
as SILWET.RTM. from CK Witco Corporation, South Charleston, W. Va.,
USA, from Goldschmidt GMBH, Essen, Germany, and Dow Corning,
Auburn, Mich., USA. Even more preferred silicone copolymers useful
herein include SILWET.RTM. L-7001 (MW=about 20,000) and SILWET.RTM.
L-7200 (MW=about 19,000) from CK Witco Corp.
[0050] Another highly preferred compound useful in the finishing
composition is a copolymer of acrylate and methacrylate, preferably
having an acrylate:methacrylate ratio of about 1:2 to 2:1, and more
preferably having an acrylate:methacrylate ratio of about 1:1 and a
molecular weight of about 250,000 to about 500,000. Such copolymers
may provide excellent crispness and tensile properties, while
minimizing fabric stiffness, which some consumers find undesirable.
Such copolymers are available from, for example, BASF
Aktiengesellschaft, Ludwigshafen, Germany, as LUVIMER SOFT.TM..
[0051] If malodor reduction is desired in the finishing
composition, then a perfume, pro-perfume, and/or a malodor reducer
may be included. Especially useful malodor reducers include those
that absorb malodors, such as a cyclodextrin, and anti-microbial
compounds which kill the germs and microorganisms which may cause
bad odor. Preferably a modified cyclodextrin and/or an
anti-bacterial agent, and more preferably a methylated
cyclodextrin, a hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin, an anti-bacterial
agent, and a mixture thereof is included as a malodor reducer. Such
cyclodextrins are available from, for example, Cerestar
International, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France.
[0052] The finishing composition may also include an aromatic
composition which delivers a selectable, and/or personalizable,
desirable scent to the fabric article. Such a scent may be then
gradually released as the fabric article is used, worn, and/or
handled. Aromatic delivery systems useful herein are known in the
art, and include sprays, pro-perfumes, absorption onto inert
carriers, etc. The desirable scent applicable in the present
invention includes essential oils, perfumes, herbal extracts,
citrus scents, aromatherapy scents, and other scents known in the
perfume art. The aromatic composition may be selected and/or
personalized by referring to a computer profile, as discussed
herein, or by otherwise collecting scent preference information
from the consumer.
[0053] The finishing composition herein may also include a compound
which protects the fabric article from future stains. Such
compounds are known in the art, and may protect the fabric article,
for example, by modifying its hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity,
reducing the coefficient of friction, coating the surface with a
polymer, etc.
[0054] Preferred finishing compositions useful herein include those
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,679 to Woo, et al., issued on Mar.
7, 2000; U.S. Pat. No. 6,001,343 to Trinh, et al., issued on Dec.
14, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,997,759 to Trinh, et al., issued on Dec.
7, 1999; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,942,217 to Woo, et al., issued on Aug.
24, 1999.
[0055] In a highly preferred embodiment, the finishing composition
acts as a fabric refresher composition and/or a home dry cleaning
composition which, respectively, reduces odors, and/or reduces the
need for dry cleaning of the fabric article. Highly preferred
fabric refresher compositions are include those described in, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,714,137 to Trinh, et al., issued on Feb. 3, 1998; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,593,670 to Trinh, et al., issued Jan. 14, 1997; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,939,060 to Trinh, et al., issued on Aug. 17, 1999. A
home dry cleaning apparatus or kit may also be included herein,
especially those described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,789,368
to You, et al., issued on Aug. 4, 1998; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,648
to Yeazell, issued on Jun. 9, 1998.
[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the finishing composition is
provided as a spray-on finishing composition, especially a spray-on
ironing composition. Such a finishing composition may be easily
applied to the fabric article, evenly applied across the fabric
article, specifically applied to a limited portion of the fabric
article, etc.
[0057] The pre-treating composition useful herein is typically
applied to a specific portion of the fabric article for the purpose
of removing a specific undesirable compound a fabric article, such
as a spot, ground-in-soil, a stain, a discoloration, an odor, etc.,
which the regular laundering process may not completely remove. A
pre-treating composition may contain therein one or more
surfactants, enzymes, bleaches, and/or solvents for a specific type
of stain, etc., but is primarily distinguished from a laundry
detergent composition and/or a fabric conditioning composition in
that it is intended to be specifically applied to a portion of the
fabric article, before the entire fabric article is subjected to
the laundering cycle. The fabric treatment instructions will
typically include a recommendation that the pre-treatment
composition be directly applied, in either neat or diluted form, to
the undesirable compound on the fabric article.
[0058] Preferred pre-treating compositions useful herein include a
spot-treater, a bleach, an enzyme composition, a stain remover, and
a mixture thereof. Such pre-treating compositions are preferably in
a solid form, a stick-like form, a liquid form, or a gel form.
[0059] The fabric treatment composition is provided in a fabric
treatment composition container, such as a box, a bottle, and/or a
pouch, which may further contain a dosing device and/or an
applicator device. Solid and granular fabric treatment compositions
are typically provided in a box or a bottle, preferably a cardboard
box or a plastic box, and more preferably a laminated cardboard
box, or a plastic box. Without intending to be limited by theory,
it is believed that a laminated cardboard box and/or a plastic box
may be especially advantageous, as these boxes may be easily
recyclable, and may also be adjusted to provide desirable
properties, such as a watertight seal, moisture resistance,
reclosability, etc. Liquid and gel-type fabric treatment
compositions are preferably provided within a plastic bottle, more
preferably a recyclable plastic bottle such as a polyethylene
and/or polypropylene bottle. The fabric treatment composition may
also be provided in a pouch, especially a refill pouch.
[0060] The fabric treatment composition, especially a pre-treating
composition and/or a finishing composition, is preferably provided
with, or provided in, a container which includes an applicator
which further provides a cleaning or fabric enhancement benefit.
For example, a scoop, a measuring cup, a pour spout, a brush, or
scrubber may be provided, either as part of the container, or
separately, to enhance application of the pre-treating composition
to the fabric article, and/or a specific portion thereof. Without
intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that an
applicator enhances contact between the pre-treatment composition
and the fabric article, so as to more effectively remove the
undesirable compound. Furthermore, convenience is enhanced, and
physical agitation may significantly loosen, or dislodge the
undesirable compound from the fabric article, with minimal effort
and inconvenience to the user. Particularly useful applicators
herein include those which simultaneously deliver the product, and
provide a cleaning or fabric enhancement benefit, especially a
brush, a membrane or scrim, a sprayer, a natural or artificial
sponge, a luffa sponge, and/or a nylon/plastic "puff". It is highly
preferred that the applicator be connected to a reservoir in which
the fabric treatment composition is stored prior to application to
the fabric article. Highly preferred pre-treatment devices are
described in WO 99/37849 to Deflander, et al., published on Jul.
29, 1999; WO 98/16438 to Fukushima, et al., published on Apr. 23,
1998; WO 98/16623 to Shindo, et al., published on Apr. 23, 1998;
and WO 98/16148 to Fukushima, et al., published on Apr. 23,
1998.
[0061] A set of fabric treatment instructions is provided which
include a fabric treatment recommendation to use the fabric
treatment composition in combination with the laundry detergent
composition, the fabric conditioning composition, another fabric
treatment composition, and/or a combination thereof. The set of
fabric treatment instructions may be provided in virtually any
location and in any form (e.g., visual, audio, tactile such as
braile, etc.), as long as it is perceivable to a consumer
purchasing the fabric treatment composition. Preferably, the set of
fabric treatment instructions is provided on a location such as a
pamphlet, a computer screen, a printed ticket, a kiosk, a sign, a
product container, an advertisement, a product display, an Internet
website, a video, and a combination thereof, preferably the set of
fabric treatment instructions are provided on a product container,
a product display, or a combination thereof, as these locations are
easy to reference. More preferably, the set of fabric treatment
instructions are provided on the fabric treatment composition's
container, as the set of fabric treatment instructions is thus
unlikely to become lost and/or separated from the fabric treatment
composition when it is needed.
[0062] Preferably, the set of fabric treatment instructions also
contains a reference to the laundry detergent composition, the
fabric conditioning composition, another fabric treatment
composition, and/or a combination thereof. More preferably, the
reference is the actual name of the referred-to laundry detergent
composition, fabric conditioning composition, and/or other fabric
treatment composition. Without intending to be limited by theory,
it is believed that such a reference may significantly reduce
consumer confusion, undesirable cross-reactions and/or interactions
between incompatible ingredients.
[0063] Furthermore, depending upon the typical use of the fabric
treatment composition, the set of fabric treatment instructions may
include a pre-laundering recommendation, a post-laundering
recommendation, a pre-conditioning recommendation, a
post-conditioning recommendation, or a combination thereof. As used
herein, a "pre-laundering recommendation" is a recommendation to
use the fabric treatment composition before a laundry detergent
composition. As used herein, a "post-laundering recommendation" is
a recommendation to use the fabric treatment composition after a
laundry detergent composition. As used herein, a "pre-conditioning
recommendation" is a recommendation to use the fabric treatment
composition before a fabric conditioning composition. As used
herein, a "post-conditioning recommendation" is a recommendation to
use the fabric treatment composition after a fabric conditioning
composition.
[0064] If a laundry detergent composition is provided, and the
fabric treatment composition is a dryer sheet composition, a
finishing composition, a color maintenance composition, or a
combination thereof, then it is highly preferred that the fabric
treatment recommendation includes a post-laundering recommendation
to use the fabric treatment composition after the laundry detergent
composition. Conversely, if a laundry detergent composition is
provided and the fabric treatment composition is a bleaching
composition, a color maintenance composition, a pre-treating
composition, or a combination thereof, preferably a color
maintenance composition, a pre-treating composition, or a
combination thereof, then it is highly preferred that the fabric
treatment recommendation includes a pre-laundering recommendation
to use the fabric treatment composition before the laundry
detergent composition.
[0065] If a fabric conditioning composition is provided, and the
fabric treatment composition is a bleaching composition, a color
maintenance composition, a pre-treating composition, or a
combination thereof, preferably a color maintenance composition, a
pre-treating composition, or a combination thereof, then it is
highly preferred that the fabric treatment recommendation includes
a pre-conditioning recommendation to use the fabric treatment
composition before the fabric conditioning composition.
Alternatively, if a fabric conditioning composition is provided and
the fabric treatment composition is a dryer sheet composition, a
finishing composition, a color maintenance composition, or a
combination thereof, preferably a finishing composition, a color
maintenance composition, or a combination thereof, then it is
highly preferred that the fabric treatment recommendation includes
a post-conditioning recommendation to use the fabric treatment
composition after the fabric conditioning composition.
[0066] In addition to the above recommendations, the set of fabric
treatment instructions will typically also include general usage
instructions which recommend how to apply the fabric treatment
composition to a fabric article.
[0067] In a highly preferred embodiment, the set of laundering
instructions, the set of fabric conditioning instructions, and/or
the set of fabric treatment instructions are a set of personalized
instructions. Such a set of personalized instructions may be
provided by, for example, collecting from the consumer one or more
pieces of personal data, such as name, address, email address,
clothing characteristics, usage characteristics, water hardness
conditions, family member characteristics, packaging preferences,
color preferences, scent preferences, fabric article preferences,
cleaning preferences or cleaning needs, laundering frequency,
whether or not the consumer owns a water softener, etc.;
determining a consumer profile by employing a mathematical
algorithm, a consumer profiling database, a statistical analysis,
etc.; and providing to the consumer a set of personalized
instructions either directly, or indirectly. The set of
personalized instructions may be provided via, for example, a
printed label, an email message, a printed sheet of instructions,
an Internet website, direct or indirect conveyance to the
consumer's home and/or to a laundering appliance, etc.
[0068] In the present method, the compositions herein are each
provided within their own containers; thus, the laundry detergent
composition is provided within a laundry detergent container, the
fabric conditioning composition is provided within a fabric
conditioning container, and the fabric treatment composition is
provided within a fabric treatment container.
[0069] While it is highly preferred in the method of the present
invention that the laundry detergent composition, the fabric
conditioning composition, and/or the fabric treatment composition
be used in combination with each other, it is recognized that each
of these compositions possess an independent activity when used
alone. Accordingly, these compositions may be sold either together,
i.e., on the same shelf, or in the same product display, or
separately, i.e., in different locations in the same store, or in
different stores. Therefore, to facilitate consumer recognition,
reduce consumer confusion, and increase ease of use, it is highly
preferred that the fabric treatment composition and the laundry
detergent composition and/or the fabric conditioning composition
possess one or more coordinated elements such as a brand name, a
characteristic ingredient, container graphics, containers, the
dosages per container, a dye, a perfume, a trade dress, and a
combination thereof.
[0070] Examples of the invention are set forth hereinafter by way
of illustration and are not intended to be in any way limiting of
the invention.
EXAMPLE 1
[0071] A liquid laundry detergent composition, a clear, liquid
fabric conditioning composition, and a color maintenance
composition are provided in three separate containers, for use on a
fabric article. The laundry detergent composition is provided with
a set of laundering instructions on the bottle label, which
specifically refer to the fabric conditioning composition and the
color maintenance composition by name. The set of laundering
instructions also recommend that best results are achieved when the
consumer uses the laundry detergent composition in combination with
the fabric conditioning composition and the color maintenance
composition. The fabric conditioning composition has a similar set
of instructions which refer to both the laundry detergent
composition and the color maintenance composition by name.
[0072] The color maintenance composition has a set of fabric
treatment instructions which refers to both the laundry detergent
composition and the fabric conditioning composition by name, and
also has a fabric treatment recommendation to use the color
maintenance composition in combination with the laundry detergent
composition and the fabric conditioning composition. The fabric
treatment recommendation contains a pre-laundering recommendation
and a pre-conditioning recommendation that the best results are
achieved by using the color maintenance composition before the
first laundering cycle for new garments and before the conditioning
cycle for succeeding uses, so as to lock in the colors and
repeatedly protect the fibers of the fabric article from
abrasion.
EXAMPLE 2
[0073] A liquid laundry detergent composition, a liquid fabric
conditioning composition, and a solid pre-treatment composition are
provided as described in Example 1, except that these three
compositions are sold together as a fabric care kit, and that the
fabric treatment recommendation suggests to apply the solid
pre-treatment stick directly to stains and spots on the fabric
article. In addition to the set of instructions on each container,
another, single set of instructions detailing all of the above
recommendations is provided within the kit, itself.
[0074] When used in combination and as per the instructions, the
liquid laundry detergent composition and the liquid fabric
conditioning composition provide excellent cleaning, are gentle to
the fabric articles, and leave no residue on the fabric article or
on the washing appliance.
EXAMPLE 3
[0075] A granular laundry detergent composition is provided in a
laundry detergent container. A liquid, oxygen bleach-based
bleaching composition is provided in an fabric treatment container,
which contains a set of fabric treatment instructions. These
instructions refer to the laundry detergent composition by name,
and include a post-laundering recommendation to apply the bleaching
composition to the fabric article after laundering it with the
laundry detergent composition, for example, by adding the bleaching
composition during the rinse cycle of an automatic washing
machine.
EXAMPLE 4
[0076] A color maintenance composition is provided in a first
fabric treatment container, and a color-safe bleach is provided in
a second fabric treatment container. The first fabric treatment
container and the second fabric treatment container have a common
construction, the same brand name, and almost identical graphics.
The color maintenance composition and the color-safe bleach are
located next to each other in a product display.
[0077] The first fabric treatment container contains a set of
fabric treatment instructions which identifies both products by
name, and recommends that for superior results, the color
maintenance composition should be used in combination with the
color-safe bleach.
EXAMPLE 5
[0078] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a dryer sheet, a color-safe bleach, a color
maintenance composition, a spray-on ironing composition, a fabric
refresher composition, and an enzymatic stain remover are provided
as a fabric care system. These compositions are placed next to each
other on adjacent store shelves. All compositions are packaged
within individual containers. Furthermore, all containers have a
similar construction, the same brand name, and almost identical
graphics. All compositions have similar aesthetics, such as color,
and perfume. The enzymatic stain remover includes a separate
pre-treatment applicator consisting of a reservoir and a soft
brush-type applicator for scrubbing the fabric article. The
compositions are applicable on all types of natural and artificial
fabrics, such as those made of cotton, nylon, rayon, wool, and
silk.
[0079] A set of instructions is provided on each individual
container, which refers to the laundry detergent composition, the
fabric conditioning composition, the bleaching composition, the
color maintenance composition, the dryer sheet composition, the
finishing compositions, and the pre-treatment composition by name,
and further recommends that these compositions be used in
combination with each other, for superior fabric care results. Each
individual container also contains a set of general usage
instructions for the composition contained therein.
[0080] Such a fabric care system is easily understood and
conceptualized by the consumer, who may easily select the desired
components while being assured that they are mutually compatible,
and will give the desired results. When used as recommended, the
fabric care system provides bright whites and vivid colors, as well
as stain and odor removal and improved cleaning. Fabrics and
clothes to which the entire system are applied are soft,
wrinkle-free, and have reduced static. Furthermore, after multiple
washing cycles, the colors are noticeably brighter and more vivid
and the fabric articles are newer-looking, as compared to a
regularly-laundered fabric article.
EXAMPLE 6
[0081] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition,
and a pre-treatment composition are provided as a fabric care
system as in Example 5, except that the set of fabric treatment
instructions is located on a sign near the shelf.
EXAMPLE 7
[0082] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition,
and a pre-treatment composition are provided as a fabric care
system as in Example 5, except that the set of fabric treatment
instructions is located on a printed ticket which also includes a
coupon which offers a discount when at least two compositions are
purchased together. When a consumer approaches the shelf, a coupon
printer located on the shelf automatically prints the printed
ticket.
EXAMPLE 8
[0083] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition,
and a pre-treatment composition are provided as a fabric care
system as in Example 5, except that these compositions are located
on a stand-alone kiosk. Also, the set of fabric treatment
instructions is located on the kiosk's computer display which is
connected to an Internet website.
[0084] When activated, the kiosk's computer display shows a short
video which recommends to the viewer that superior fabric care
results are achieved when the fabric care system is used as
instructed.
EXAMPLE 9
[0085] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition,
and a pre-treatment composition are provided as a fabric care
system as in Example 8, except that these compositions are located
on a stand-alone kiosk containing a computer with a touch-sensitive
screen for entering data. The computer is connected to a consumer
profiling database located on the Internet.
[0086] At the computer, the consumer is asked to enter personal
data, in order to produce a set of personalized instructions. The
consumer is asked for personal information such as name, address,
email address, clothing characteristics, usage characteristics,
family member characteristics, scent preferences, fabric article
preferences, cleaning preferences or cleaning needs, and laundering
frequency. The computer gathers the personal data provided and
generates a consumer profile by using a mathematical algorithm to
correlate the personal data entered with that stored in the
consumer profiling database. In addition, the computer determines
the likely water hardness by cross-referencing the consumer's
address with known databases describing local water hardness and
conditions.
[0087] The consumer profile is then used to generate a set of
personalized instructions for the consumer. The set of personalized
instructions is provided on one or more computer-printed adhesive
labels which the consumer is instructed to attach to one or more of
the laundry detergent composition container, the fabric
conditioning composition container, and/or the fabric treatment
composition container.
EXAMPLE 10
[0088] A laundry detergent composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, a bleaching composition, a color maintenance
composition, a dryer sheet composition, a finishing composition,
and a pre-treatment composition are provided as a fabric care
system as in Example 9, and a set of personalized instructions are
generated, as described. In addition, the set of personalized
instructions are directly transmitted to the consumers' home
computer, via the Internet, and from there to the consumer's home
washing appliance.
EXAMPLE 11
[0089] A laundry shampoo composition, a fabric conditioning
composition, and a fabric refresher composition are provided as a
fabric care kit as in Example 2, except that the fabric treatment
instructions recommend that the fabric refresher be used after the
fabric conditioning composition, and on occasions where the fabric
article (e.g., a shirt) is used (e.g., worn) multiple times
in-between laundering cycles. The fabric refresher composition
effectively absorbs odors and refreshes the fabric article, thus
reducing the need for laundering cycles. This in turn, enhances the
longevity of the fabric article.
* * * * *